Cork County Council is pleased to announce the return of the Youghal Medieval Festival on Sunday, 2nd August, with thousands of visitors expected to attend one of East Cork's most popular heritage events.
Organised by Living Youghal and supported by Cork County Council and the Heritage Council through the Irish Walled Towns Network, the festival will transform Youghal's historic Raleigh Quarter into a vibrant celebration of the town's rich medieval heritage, offering a full day of free family entertainment, interactive experiences and cultural activities.
Now in its nineteenth year, the festival has become a flagship event in Cork County’s programme of heritage and tourism initiatives, showcasing Youghal's unique history while supporting local businesses and enhancing the town's appeal as a visitor destination.
Set within the historic surroundings of St. Mary's College Gardens, visitors can enjoy medieval encampments and battle displays by the White Horse Living History Society, falconry demonstrations, traditional craft displays, archaeological workshops and the popular 'Big Dig' experience from the School of Irish Archaeology. A wide range of family activities, including face painting, balloon art, a petting farm and artisan food and craft stalls, will take place throughout the day.
A significant new addition for 2026 is the Sensory Orchard, located within the apple orchard at St. Mary's College Gardens. Designed as a calm and welcoming space, it provides children and families with an opportunity to step away from the busy festival atmosphere, reflecting Cork County Council's commitment to creating inclusive events that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Visitors can also explore nearby St. Mary's Collegiate Church and experience the award-winning Voices of St. Mary's audio tour and family treasure trail, offering another engaging way to discover the story of one of Ireland's most important medieval buildings.
The festival continues to deliver significant benefits for the local economy. Independent analysis found that the 2023 event generated almost €864,000 in economic activity for local businesses, demonstrating the important role heritage tourism plays in supporting jobs, investment and visitor spending in East Cork.
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